Google Print Ads Run in Chicago Sun-Times

Google is running classified-like ads in the pages of the Chicago Sun-Times, which so far is the only newspaper participating in Google's print advertising tests, Crain's reports (via MediaBuyerPlanner). The ads debuted on Dec. 9, and only 15 boxes have run so far.

The deal allows Google to fill remnant space in the Sun-Times. "Ads by Google" appears at the top of each box of ads, which are being run near relevant content. Google ads for ticket brokers, White Sox apparel and Chicago Bears memorabilia have run in the Sports section.
While Google's online business might be undermining newspapers, Sun-Times Publisher John Cruickshank joked, "We were eager to help them shut us down. They're buying ads. We like that."

MPI Home Video says Google invited the company to participate free in the test because its Chicago Bears ad, which had been on Google for the previous 15 months, had drawn a high number of hits.

The spokeswoman says sales of the DVD increased about 50 percent after the print ad ran.